Borjomi is a hydrothermal health spa resort in the southern region of Samskhe-Javakheti in Georgia. This picturesque valley of ~10,000 residents lies within the Agura River gorge at an altitude of 800 meters/2624 feet. Borjomi has an international reputation for its geothermal spring mineral water resources.

Downtown Borjomi is split in two by the Mtkvari River, the same river that divides Tbilisi.

Golden Tulip Hotel—our fabulous stay Saturday evening—we enjoyed their spa facilities on Saturday and Sunday—jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. We also, sipped from the original Borjomi mineral spring. Rode the Borjomi cable car up to the plateau. Admired the 19th century architecture in old town. Lunched at Cafe Iggy and Inka Cafe—both absolutely delicious. Both cafes had a relaxed vibe and simple but delicious menus. At Cafe Iggy, Mike had the Borjomi trout baked in grape vine leaves with pomegranate sauce—again, absolutely delicious! Had appetizers on Saturday evening at the Crowne Plaza Borjomi. And walked for a few hours on Sunday seeing the Romanov palace (built as a summer mansion), making it to the entrance of the Borjomi National Park.

Most well known Georgian bottled water (at least to me 😉): Borjomi, naturally carbonated mineral water, I think it has a slightly salty taste and LOTS of bubbles. Bakuriani, a natural mineral spring water—no bubbles, no salty taste. I drink Bakuriani the most. Both from the springs of the Borjomi Valley, nestled in the Borjomi Kharagauli National Park. Nabeghlavi, initially discovered in 1905 in Guria, the spring caught attention due to its unique taste and therapeutic qualities. And Sairme, a naturally carbonated mineral water, originates from the springs in the Imereti region of Georgia—they say, the healing waters of the Meskheti Range.

A wonderful weekend. It was nice to be outside the city for a couple of days.